FolkKB

Bursera graveolens

Bursera graveolens

Bursera graveolens, commonly known as guaiacum or guayacán, is a traditional medicine plant primarily found in Central and South America. Its use in traditional practices has not been extensively documented. Scientific studies have shown that the essential oil from Bursera graveolens exhibits enhanced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and significant antinociceptive effects, suggesting potential therapeutic applications. Additionally, it demonstrated fumigant toxicity against stored grain pests such as Callosobruchus maculatus and C. chinensis, with C. chinensis being more susceptible. The essential oil also showed comparable repellency against mosquitoes and moderate repellency against Sitophilus zeamais, along with varying acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity. Notably, no major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The BEO-NE showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and significant antinociceptive activity, while demonstrating a favorable safety profile. D PMID
  • Bursera graveolens essential oil showed fumigant toxicity against both Callosobruchus maculatus and C. chinensis, with C. chinensis being more susceptible. D PMID
  • Bursera graveolens essential oil showed strong ovideterrent activity against Aedes albopictus with 64% reduction in egg laying at 200 µL L-1. D PMID
  • Bursera graveolens essential oils showed moderate repellency against Sitophilus zeamais and varied acetylcholinesterase inhibition. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Bursera graveolens?

Bursera graveolens (Bursera graveolens) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Bursera graveolens?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Bursera graveolens; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The BEO-NE showed enhanced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and significant antinociceptive activity, while demonstrating a favorable safety profile.

How strong is the evidence for Bursera graveolens?

The strongest finding for Bursera graveolens carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Bursera graveolens safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Bursera graveolens in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Bursera graveolens interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Bursera graveolens in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Bursera graveolens a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 The Repellent Capacity against Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and In Vitro Inhibition of the Acetylcholinesterase Enzyme of 11 Essential Oils from Six Plants of the Caribbean Region of Colombia. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Chemical Profiling, Sensory Qualities, and Bioactivities of Essential Oils Obtained from Aloysia citrodora and Bursera graveolens Ecuadorian Plants Against the Mosquito Aedes albopictus (Skuse) (Diptera: Culicidae). literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 GABA and Octopamine Receptors as Potential Targets for Fumigant Actions of Bursera graveolens Essential Oil Against Callosobruchus maculatus and Callosobruchus chinensis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Palo Santo (Bursera graveolens) essential oil nanoemulsion: toxicological, antinociceptive and antimicrobial potential against bovine mastitis-associated strains. literature abstract metadata